Forgiveness

Forgiveness.  What was the first thought that came to your mind when you read that word?  No really, take a minute and think about it?  What comes to mind when you see the word forgiveness?

There are few words that elicit a more emotional response than “forgiveness.”  Memories remind us of the pain caused to us and by us.  Those memories sometimes even hold us at the place of offense keeping us from truly moving forward in our lives.

Yet Jesus taught his disciples in Mark 11:25 saying, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”  This implies that without giving forgiveness to others we will not be forgiven of our sins by God.  How are we supposed to respond?  What if we don’t know how to forgive?  What if we don’t want to forgive?  What if they don’t deserve to be forgiven?  Is God trying to make us feel like a victim again?

Throughout the month of June we are going to explore what forgiveness looks like for those who follow Jesus.  We will also shed light on the answers the Bible provides to the questions we have about forgiveness.  We can’t let unforgiveness control our lives anymore.  Together we can all take new steps of faith toward forgiveness, healing and wholeness.  Others will need to hear this too.  Who will you invite to join our family journey?

In Him,

Pastor Tim.